Nintendo Switch Update Closes Popular Game Sharing Loophole

The latest Nintendo Switch system update has introduced a significant change with the implementation of Virtual Game Cards, ahead of the upcoming Switch 2 launch. This update has effectively closed a loophole that allowed users to play the same digital game online across two different Switch consoles simultaneously.

As reported by Eurogamer, prior to this update, Switch users could launch a game on their primary console and play it online while another user, logged into the same account, played on a different Switch. The new Virtual Game Cards system has put an end to this practice.

However, users have discovered an alternative method to play a single copy of a digital game. By going offline and enabling the "Online Licenses" option in their user settings, players can still access a digital game without needing the Virtual Game Card, provided it's not being played elsewhere or if the Switch in use is set to offline mode. The setting's description reads:

"If this option is enabled, purchased digital software will be playable while the console is connected to the internet, even when the virtual game card for that software isn't loaded to the console. However, when using an online licence, only the user signed into the Nintendo Account that was used to purchase the software will be able to play it; it will not be playable for other users on the console. Your virtual game cards can be used to play software regardless of this setting. Online licences cannot be used on multiple consoles at the same time. The online licence and virtual game card for a software title cannot be used at the same time."

In essence, if one Switch is offline, it's still possible to play the same game on two different Switches at the same time. Eurogamer has tested and confirmed that this workaround functions as described. The key difference now is that simultaneous online play on two different consoles is no longer possible due to this update.

The gaming community, particularly on platforms like ResetEra and Reddit, has expressed dissatisfaction with this change. Many users are frustrated as their previous game-sharing setups are disrupted, especially the ability to play online together. This change is particularly inconvenient for families and groups who enjoyed playing games like Splatoon or Minecraft together. The update means that families with multiple children wanting to play the same Switch game will now have to purchase additional copies, effectively doubling the cost.

This update comes just over a month before the launch of the Switch 2, which will also employ the Virtual Game Cards system. Additionally, the Switch 2 will utilize Game-Key Cards, where certain games will not have the full game on the cartridge and will require an online download to play, adding another layer to the new system's implementation.